Businessman bags top regional award

Lawrence Tomlinson, chairman of Leeds-based LNT Group, received the accolade at the Insider Yorkshire Entrepreneur Awards.

The presentation evening brought together more than 150 business people across the region to celebrate Yorkshire’s entrepreneurial flair.

Mr Tomlinson, who stepped down as Entrepreneur in Residence at the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills last month, said he was delighted to have won.

He said: “It is a real compliment. It’s been a busy year with many new opportunities for the LNT Group, such as the launch of our Ginetta Racing Drivers Club, as well as my job in Government.

“I worked hard at the Department for Business to break down the barriers to growth and ensure businesses are able to flourish.

“In particular, I truly hope by publishing the Tomlinson Report and exposing where banks have not been treating businesses fairly, that I have helped businesses across the country.

“We’ve got an exciting year ahead at the LNT Group, which continues to go from strength to strength, so I’d like to thank everyone in the group for their hard work.”

The judges noted the success of the LNT Group, and praised Mr Tomlinson’s continuous investment in his business portfolio through new developments and skills training.

It has been another impressive year for the former Batley Grammar School pupil, who also received the Institute of Directors Overall Director of the Year 2013 award.